Nestled in the heart of the Cowichan Valley, Providence Farm operates as a therapeutic working farm and Registered Charity, serving adults and seniors with a variety of mental health challenges, developmental and intellectual disabilities and age-related illnesses. On the 400-acre property, 2 acres of arable land is immediately available for vegetable production by an independent farmer. This is an ideal opportunity for a self-sufficient, (younger) start-up farmer who wants to give farming a serious try!
Land Details
Participant in BC Land Matching Program
Yes - This opportunity is participating in the BC Land Matching Program. Reach out to kiyomi@youngagrarians.org to start a conversation.
Total land size in acres
400 acres
Wooded Area
Yes
Cultivable Area
2 acres in a 15-acre field
Expansion potential (acres)
No
Zoning
ALR
Current use
Vegetable -
Livestock -
Hay & Forage -
Greenhouse -
Current practices
Organic -
State of the surface of the cultivable area
Fallow, grassy field.
Description and historical use of land available for farming
Historically stewarded by the pioneering Sisters of St. Ann, the property is now home to a not-for-profit therapeutic working farm as well as a number of community organizations. The available land is part of a 15-acre field, that has been farmed before but is now fallow. It might require some rock-picking before growing vegetables. It is partially fenced, and has good access to water.
Road Access
Yes - the field has its own access, separate from the rest of the farm
Electricity
No
Cell Service
Yes
Long-term goal or vision for land
“Trusting in Providence, and building upon the faith-centered heritage of our founding members, we are committed to serving needs and to fostering talents of people in the Cowichan Valley, especially of those not easily accepted elsewhere, through our therapeutic community at Providence Farm. Our focus shall be upon the renewal of the body and spirit, and upon people caring for the soil, and the soil nurturing the people.”
Known environmental hazards (wildfire area, flooding, etc.)
No
Current residents living on property
No
Availability of farm buildings
No
Land is fenced
Yes - partially fenced
Availability of farm machinery and tools
Yes - tractor with operator for hourly rate
Water source
Pond/lake -
Irrigation system -
Water rights to these sources
Yes - may be metered for responsible use
On-site housing
No
Restricted access of visitors
Yes - access limited to the farm field
Types of production you are open to
Vegetable -
Practices preferred
Organic -
Agronomic potential
Good
Soil details
Rocky soil -
General fertility (nutrients) - need amendments
Preferred arrangement
Lease -
Would you be willing to mentor or advise the entering farmer(s)?
